Did our parents go through this same epiphanic moment, gradually climbing toward adulthood without even realizing it until they were elbows deep in mortgage payments and yard work? Correct me if I’m wrong, but I imagine not.
Treat yourself kindly. Begin to replace those thoughts of criticism with ones of compassion. For each negative thought, force yourself to acknowledge something positive.
Not only do looks-based compliments imply that one’s previous weight or shape was less acceptable, especially if weight loss was unintended and maybe even the result of an illness, but could also serve to enable someone’s potentially dangerous weight loss methods.
Remember that SNL skit with Maya, Amy, and Tina traipsing around in mom jeans? THAT BUTT, in the most dramatic fashion possible.